COST ESTIMATING

Roberts Consulting Group’s Cost Estimating Services have provided commercial and residential clients with accurate estimates since 1986. His reputation is indisputable in this very critical area. Roberts Consulting Group’s cost estimating experience spans all types of construction estimating and reporting, in a variety of types of building projects in California and the US. Expert Witness representation is also a specialty. Robert Tellez is an active member of the American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE). He served as an ASPE Chapter 4 Board member for four years and Treasurer (2002-03) in San Diego.

MORE INFORMATION ON LEVELS OF COST ESTIMATING:
Obviously, the “level” of cost estimating services varies according to individual circumstances. It is recommended that anyone seeking these services carefully investigate the reputation and track record of the cost expert, such as his/her academic and field experience, and license in terms of state and specialty. Generally, there are three levels of cost estimating, depending on the amount of information and severity of the alleged problem:

1. A Budget Estimate, which involves as well as analysis of a verbal description of your structures, grounds, population, area, and any alleged defects claimed or suspected.
This is followed up by limited site inspections prior to any estimate.2. A Conceptual Estimate,which includes the above as well as photos of the buildings and any suspected problem areas, some destructive testing by the estimator, and recommendations for repair. Additionally, recommendations for repair/restoration of any defects found at this level are made.3. A Preliminary Estimate includes the above, with the addition of requests for and analyses of original drawings (if available), preparation of repair drawings.

One of the more valuable outcomes of a cost estimate is the repair recommendations, mentioned above. They can include:
• A detailed description of the problematic areas found.
• Written advice on best known mechanisms for repairing and/or replacing problems.
(These can come from one or more experts in a specific field, depending on the level and type of defect/damage).
• A report detailing results of destructive testing conducted, including time(s) and timeframe(s), occurrences, levels, etc.
• A proposal of the best known methods to correct the defects/damages, including materials.
• Other possible information might include an estimate of repair for other locations based on the above analyses and the coverage of the property at hand.

Burdens:
• Contingencies
• General conditions
• Fees (based upon volume as well as other concerns)